Regional Planner

Category: Full-Time Professional (Exempt)
Supervisor: Executive Director (with project-based supervision by senior staff)
Salary Range: $65,000 to $80,000

Why This Role Matters

As a Regional Planner at NMCOG, you will work directly with municipalities to turn community goals into implementable strategies. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys tackling a variety of planning topics, working closely with local officials, and translating data and policy into clear, actionable recommendations. You’ll contribute to projects that shape housing, transportation, land use, sustainability, and economic development across the region.

What You’ll Do

• Assist with development of short- and long-range Master Plans, Housing Plans, Economic Development Plans, Mobility Plans/Corridor Studies, Open Space and Recreation Plans, and regional plans, including strategies to promote equitable mobility, economic and community development, or efficient land use consistent with community goals
• Interpret and apply applicable local and state bylaws, ordinances, and policies
• Develop and help advance implementation and action plans, including priorities, schedules, and funding sources
• Conduct extensive technical research in specific or general project areas relative to transportation, housing, economic development, land use, and sustainability 
• Gather and enter data, with ability to analyze and synthesize data
• Write, or assist in writing, a variety of bylaws, ordinances, policies, reports, and presentations 
• Interface and make presentations to local, state and federal officials, the business community and advocacy groups
• Maintain effective working relationships with local communities, regional, state and federal agencies, advocacy groups, consultants, the business community and the public
• Maintain and expand knowledge concerning local, state and federal planning requirements, practices, policies and processes. 
• Assist with outreach and engagement activities, including but not limited to developing promotional materials, social media messaging, press releases, and website updates
• Assist with grant research and application preparation and administration
• Develop visual and written communications materials such as report covers, flyers, and social media content
• Maintain and update datasets, including building permits, zoning, and parcel GIS data
• Conduct field evaluations, site surveys, and assessments
• Coordinate and participate in technical committees, advisory committees, working groups and task forces, as appropriate
• Attend evening and weekend meetings

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a motivated, adaptable planner who is curious, collaborative, and comfortable juggling multiple projects.

Required Skills: 

• Knowledge of one or more planning specializations, such as transportation/mobility, land use planning/zoning, environmental planning/sustainability, housing, or economic development 
• Knowledge of planning principles and practices specifically related to housing analysis, economic development, land use, transportation, sustainable development, and other planning techniques and strategies
• Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research and data collection
• Knowledge of statistical and data analytics
• Knowledge of computer programs and applications, including Microsoft Office Suite and database management
• Proficiency editing and maintaining geospatial data using Esri ArcGIS Pro or QGIS
• Familiarity with graphic design software (Adobe Creative Suite) preferred but not required
• Familiarity with group facilitation skills for use at community workshops
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously
• Ability to work effectively with community groups and government officials, especially local elected and appointed officials
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Strong technical, writing, and oral communication and public presentation skills

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, public policy, environmental studies, GIS, economic development, or a closely related field or at least two years of relevant professional experience
• Working knowledge of planning principles related to housing, land use, transportation, sustainability, and economic development
• Experience with research, data analysis, and synthesis
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database tools
• Strong writing, analytical, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred (but not required):

• Experience utilizing GIS, social media platforms, and/or community engagement tools is a plus
• Familiarity with graphic design tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite
• Experience supporting community engagement or facilitation
• Experience with grant research or administration

Additional Requirements

Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the U.S. and a valid driver's license and/or the ability to arrange transportation to meetings in different parts of the region.